Hey parents, are you concerned about relying solely on ADHD medications to manage your child’s symptoms? Do you worry about the long-term effects these drugs might have on your child’s health and development? Have you considered the idea of a “medication break” during the summer months to allow your child’s brain and nervous system to heal and reset? If so, you’re on the right path! There are natural, drug-free options available to help manage your child’s ADHD symptoms effectively.
Did you know that over 6 million children in the United States are diagnosed with ADHD, with many prescribed stimulant medications to manage their symptoms? While these medications can be effective in the short term, they come with a host of potential side effects, including sleep problems, decreased appetite, and even heart issues. It’s no wonder you may be seeking alternative approaches to support your child’s health.
Embrace the Healing Power of Summer
Summertime offers a unique opportunity to support children struggling with ADHD. With reduced stress from early wake-ups, school routines, and homework pressures, summer is the perfect time to explore natural and holistic alternatives. For families looking for a ‘medication break,’ this period can be ideal for focusing on approaches that may have a more profound impact compared to the busier, fully medicated school months.
Understanding the Root Cause of ADHD
The root cause of ADHD often relates to neurological dysfunction and imbalances in the brain and nervous system. Factors such as fertility treatments, maternal stress, birth interventions, and early infant challenges like colic and reflux can contribute to its development. A dysregulated nervous system, characterized by an overactive sympathetic (gas pedal) response and an underactive parasympathetic (brake pedal) response, plays a crucial role in ADHD. Repeated stress and tension in the nervous system can further disrupt neurological function, impacting bodily processes and neurotransmitter balance.
ADHD medications typically do not address these underlying issues; instead, they mask the symptoms. By taking a break from these medications during the summer months or holidays, you can give your child’s body a chance to reset and heal naturally without the interference of drugs and their side effects.
Focus on Lifestyle Factors
During a “medication break,” it’s important to concentrate on lifestyle factors that support your child’s health and development, such as:
- Ensuring your child gets plenty of sleep
- Providing a nutrient-dense diet
- Encouraging regular physical activity and outdoor play
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing
While these lifestyle changes can help calm and regulate your child’s nervous system, they may not be sufficient on their own.
The Power of Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care
This is where Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care comes in. Chiropractic adjustments help restore balance and function to the nervous system, improving sleep, focus, attention, and behavioral and emotional regulation. By addressing the root cause of your child’s ADHD symptoms, chiropractic care can help reduce the need for medications in the long term.
The nervous system plays a crucial role in regulating your child’s “fight or flight” response and their ability to “rest, digest, and regulate.” When your child struggles with focusing and regulating between the “gas pedal” and the “brake pedal,” it’s often a sign that their nervous system needs attention. Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care aims to help the nervous system adapt and regulate, so your child doesn’t have to be stuck on the gas 24/7.
Take Charge of Your Child’s Health
As a parent, you have the power to take charge of your child’s health and well-being. If you’re ready to explore a natural approach to managing your child’s ADHD symptoms, we can help!
At Foundations Chiropractic, we specialize in helping children with ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders without relying on medication. Our approach focuses on helping the nervous system adapt and regulate, ensuring your child isn’t constantly running on overdrive. Our doctors are trained to identify and address the underlying causes of your child’s symptoms, paving the way for them to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
Reach Out Today
Curious about how chiropractic care can support your child during a “medication break” and beyond? Please reach out to Foundations Chiropractic today! If you are not local to us, check out the PX Docs directory to find a PX Doc office near you.
This summer, help your child unlock their full potential and experience a summer they’ll never forget.
